Nagaland Sports
New Market FC lift 22nd NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy
Our Correspondent
Kohima, Oct. 24 (EMN): New Market FC defeated Ura Uvie FC 2-0 in the final of the 22nd NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy played at IG Stadium in Kohima on Monday.
The extreme foggy weather on Monday in Kohima, overshadowed IG Stadium making it almost impossible for the spectators to see. However, the inclement weather did not dampen the spirit of the fans to cheer for the two teams till the final whistle.
Winning the title for the first time, the defining moment for New Market came in the 21st minute through the boots of Peseyie Neisede who scored the first goal. His teammate Yhunshalo Kemp scored the second goal in the second half (83rd minute) to seal the fate of Ura Uvie.
Two-time runner-up New Market, a local favourite from the state capital, received cash award of INR 2,00,000 and the martyrs’ trophy.
Debutants Ura Uvie, also from Kohima, received INR 1,20,000 as the runners-up of this year’s edition.
Earlier, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the grand finale.
On October 23, Ura Uvie overpowered FIFA FC 6-2 in the first semi-final while New Market defeated Shillong Lajong FC, a reputed I-League team, 2-1 in the second semi-final match.
Altogether, 35 teams including one from Meghalaya, two from Manipur, four from Chümoukedima district, two from Phek district and 26 teams from Kohima district participated in this year’s edition.
Individual winners
- Best goalkeeper – Neithovilie Chalieu (Ura Uvie FC
- Best defender – Atlanson Kharmaw (Shillong Lajong FC)
- Best midfielder – Sangti Janai Shianglong (Shillong Lajong FC)
- Player of the tournament and highest scorer – Rhitsho Mero (New Market FC) with 23 goals to his credit.
The best custodian, best defender, best midfielder and highest scorer received INR 10,000 each while the player of the tournament received a two-wheeler.